Public Safety Communications Specialist

About La Crosse County :
At La Crosse County, we are committed to creating a vibrant, safe, and inclusive community. Guided by our Strategic Plan, we focus on economic growth, environmental stewardship, affordable housing, and robust public services that enhance the quality of life for all residents.

Why Join La Crosse County?

• Wisconsin Retirement System (WRS) : A top-rated pension program.
• Affordable Insurance Premiums :
  Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage.
• Generous Paid Time Off :
  Vacation, sick, and 10+ paid holidays annually.
• Work-Life Balance :
  Flexible schedules and wellness programs.

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) :
At La Crosse County, we believe that diversity strengthens our community. We are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where all employees feel valued.

Overview

FLSA:
Non-Exempt. This is a specialized, non-sworn, safety-critical public safety communications position responsible for receiving, evaluating, prioritizing, documenting, and routing emergency and non-emergency requests for law enforcement, fire, EMS first response, emergency management, and related public safety services.

The Public Safety Communications Specialist serves as a communications link between callers, responders, partner agencies, and the Public Safety Communications Center, using telephone, NG9-1-1/text/data tools, radio, CAD, mapping/GIS, logging systems, alerting tools, and other authorized technologies.

The position requires extensive training, sound judgment, emotional control, clear communication, confidentiality, and the ability to work accurately in a 24-hour, high-stress emergency communications environment. Employees work under close supervision while in training and exercise increasing independent judgment after demonstrating competency. Work is performed in accordance with County policies, PSAP policies and Standard Operating Guidelines (SOGs), adopted public safety communications standards, CJIS/TIME requirements, and local agency protocols.

Essential Leadership Functions

Act with Integrity and Build Trust

• Demonstrate mutual respect, humility, and honesty in all interactions

• Speak up appropriately, even when expressing unpopular viewpoints

• Actively listen and remain open-minded to diverse perspectives

Drive for Results

• Set clear goals and objectives to motivate self and others to achieve outcomes

• Seek new opportunities to improve processes and drive sustainable results

• Hold self and others accountable through consistent evaluation and monitoring

Develop Talent and Effective Teams

• Foster a collaborative environment that encourages knowledge sharing and growth

• Provide mentorship and support to help self and others reach full potential

• Recognize and leverage diverse strengths within self and team

Lead with Vision and Strategy

• Understand and communicate a compelling vision that aligns with organizational goals

• Develop and execute comprehensive strategies to achieve long-term objectives

• Connect daily work to the bigger picture, inspiring self and others to contribute meaningfully

Lead with Paradoxical, Critical, and Agile Thinking

• Navigate complex situations by considering multiple perspectives

• Adapt quickly to changes and uncertainties in the work environment

• Make critical decisions using analytical skills, experience, and input from others

Build and Maintain Effective Relationships

• Communicate and collaborate effectively with stakeholders across the organization

• Influence others through coaching, consulting, and team-minded thinking

• Develop and sustain partnerships that create positive outcomes for all stakeholders

Cultivate Community Engagement and Provide Excellent Service

• Understand and address the needs and concerns of the community

• Incorporate community perspectives into decision-making processes

• Drive initiatives that create positive impacts beyond the organization

Demonstrate Emotional Intelligence

• Show self-awareness and manage emotions effectively in challenging situations

• Seek and respond constructively to feedback, even in the face of setbacks

• Balance empathy with accountability when leading self and working with others

Demonstrates self-leadership, seeks…